Montgomery County’s Future: Innovating Early Childhood Development
In the heart of Montgomery County, Maryland, a critical mission quietly unfolds, dedicated to supporting local families with young children, believing that every child in the county deserves an equitable start in life.
Driven by a passionate team, Children’s Opportunity Alliance began in 2016 with a vision to connect the community and create an early childhood system that is equitable, accessible, high-quality and sustainable.
This mission is more than a set of ideals, explains Kimberly Rusnak, executive director of the Alliance; “it’s a roadmap to a brighter future where all children can reach their greatest potential. By narrowing disparities and fostering a collective spirit, we are not just supporting individual children but nurturing the entire community.”
Taking Steps Toward an Integrated Approach to Learning
Children’s Opportunity Alliance’s flagship project is aligned with the Maryland Blueprint’s PreK Expansion. The initiative aims to create a mixed-delivery early education system that offers early learning programs through Montgomery County Public Schools and community-based PreK programs. “It’s a bold step toward integrating education at all levels and ensuring every child has access to quality early learning,” Rusnak says.
The organization’s strategy is anchored in four key areas. First, in engaging families as a child’s first teacher, recognizing the critical role parents play throughout all phases of education. Second, in ensuring seamless access to high-quality programs so no child is left behind. Third, they focus on preparing and supporting a workforce of early childhood educators. Finally, they work toward establishing a coordinated and well-resourced system that can sustain these efforts.
Over the past 10 months, the organization landed collaborations with community partners and local government, an effort that has increased the number of community-based PreK programs from seven to 13 for the 2024-2025 school year, adding 120 new seats for PreK educational opportunities.
This growth, though incremental, speaks volumes about the community’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality early learning.
Expanding PreK Opportunities
Children’s Opportunity Alliance prioritizes tracking data related to childcare availability for infants, toddlers and school-age children. They work with county partners to ensure a healthy, comprehensive system that meets the needs of all families.
As a relatively new organization, they are developing their expertise in public engagement and education. They also support community events, such as the Week of the Young Child, to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood development.
A Community-based Approach to Collaboration
Established through county legislation, Children’s Opportunity Alliance operates with a diverse board of 21 members that includes government representatives, parents, childcare center directors, family childcare business owners, nonprofit partners, local businesses and philanthropists.
Key partnerships with Montgomery College, The Universities at Shady Grove, Ruppert Companies and the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation have been instrumental in advancing their mission.
Their local commitment not only enhances the community but also contributes to global initiatives by creating a model for community-based early childhood systems that can inspire similar efforts worldwide.
“High-quality childcare is critical, particularly in a county where 75% of children live in households with single parents or dual-working parents,” Rusnak says. “The pandemic exacerbated existing challenges, making childcare even less accessible and more expensive for many families. Despite increased community investment, many childcare businesses continue to struggle. We are actively raising awareness about the importance of early care and education and its broader impact on the community.
Through their strategic initiatives, collaborative spirit and passionate advocacy, Children’s Opportunity Alliance is helping change the lives of children and contributing to a thriving community that believes in the potential of every child. Learn more about their work at mocochildren.org.
